Graham Leadbitter has called on the UK Government to increase defence investment in the north of Scotland, warning the region is being overlooked despite growing security concerns.

The North of Scotland MP said the area’s strategic importance is not being matched by support from Westminster.

His comments follow reports of threats to critical infrastructure in the Atlantic and wider concerns about the UK’s defensive readiness.

The issue has also been raised by George Robertson, who warned of what he described as complacency around defence.

Leadbitter pointed to the presence of key military sites in the Highlands, arguing they play a frontline role in national security.

He said:

“For decades successive Westminster governments have sidelined Scotland, underinvesting in our defensive capabilities here and outright cutting and disbanding Scottish regiments and bases.

“With the new reality we’re being forced to confront, and the plethora of threats we face, it’s time for them to wake up and recognise the strategic importance of Scotland and the far north.

“Our forces based at Fort George, Kinloss Barracks, and RAF Lossiemouth in my constituency are on the frontline in our defence against Russia and deserve our admiration and support, but they need more from Westminster to be able to fulfil their roles.

“There is clearly a military advantage to basing more vessels in the North of Scotland for a start, and there’s no shortage of ports in Scotland from where they can be based.

“All that’s missing here is the political will from a Westminster system that has dismissed our unique defensive needs for far too long.

“That has to change, or they should make way for an independent Scottish Government that will take our needs seriously.”

The comments highlight a growing debate around defence priorities and the role of Scotland within the UK’s wider security strategy.

With global tensions increasing, questions over where resources are deployed and how regions are supported are likely to remain in focus.